Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2022 Lexus ES
The 2022 Lexus ES is a sedan that earns a Carivo score of 8.1/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.9/10, while Value at 7.6/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. Reliability stands out at 8.8/10. The ES nameplate has earned that score through its track record and a comparatively clean recall sheet. On safety, it scores 8.9/10 in our assessment. Always confirm the official crash-test results for your exact trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Few rivals match it for performance: 8.6/10. Expect handling and power delivery that make this one of the more entertaining sedans to actually drive. On technology it rates 8.3/10: a modern, well-integrated suite that compares favorably with anything at this price point.
Priced from $39,940–$47,695, 28 MPG, seating 5, the Lexus ES sits in the mid-market bracket of the sedan segment. At 7.6/10 for value, it delivers fair pricing for what's on offer, though the best alternatives in this price range score slightly higher. At 4 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2022 Lexus ES will scare a sensible buyer off. It scores consistently across the board, and it does what a good sedan should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among Sedans
The 2022 Lexus ES ranks #117 of 1310 sedans in the Carivo database — better than 91% of the segment. Its 8.1/10 overall score is 0.6 points above the segment average of 7.5/10. Its $39,940 starting price is about 44% above the segment's median of $27,664.
Varies widely by driver and state — always quote the exact trim before buying
We only print costs we can compute from sourced data (EPA fuel economy, NHTSA recalls). We don't estimate maintenance or depreciation — anyone who gives you one number for those is guessing.
Which ES Year Should You Buy?
Smart-money pick: the 2019 Lexus ES scores 8.1/10 — within striking distance of the 2022's 8.1 — and starts roughly $4,000 lower. If you don't need the newest model year, that's money better spent on a higher trim or kept in your pocket.
Proven long-term reliability — lower unplanned repair costs than class average
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Good overall value; holds its own against pricier alternatives in the segment
Engaging driving dynamics with class-leading power and handling
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
✗ Where it falls short
Few standout weaknesses — review individual sub-scores for nuance
Some competing models offer a higher overall score at a similar price
Common Questions — 2022 Lexus ES
Is the 2022 Lexus ES reliable?
We rate the 2022 Lexus ES's reliability 8.8/10 — one of the stronger records in its class.
Is the 2022 Lexus ES worth buying?
It scores 8.1/10 overall, ranking #117 of 1310 sedans in our database (better than 91% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2022 Lexus ES cost?
The 2022 Lexus ES starts at $39,940 and ranges up to $47,695 across trims (MSRP when new). At 28 MPG, expect roughly $1,875/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Which ES years should you avoid?
Based on our year-by-year scoring, the weakest ES years we've rated are 2014 (7.4/10), 2015 (7.8/10), 2018 (7.9/10) — each at least half a point below the nameplate's best (8.4/10). See the full year table above before deciding.
Owner Essentials — Lexus ES
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Similar Sedan to Consider
Other sedans at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
